St Annes: Jack’s Bistro

6:52pm Friday 29th February 2008

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It's hard to know what to expect from Jack's Bistro in Wood Street, St Annes.

It is set well back from the road and with the remnants of its summer seating still scattered on its front, you could be forgiven for thinking it were slightly neglected.

Once inside though, you soon realise this cosy Mediterranean bistro is thoroughly loved. The decor is slightly rustic, very colourful and so busy that you soon become absorbed with it.

The menu has plenty of interesting dishes to suit all tastes including vegetarian, plus specials and a la carte.

We went for the lunch menu offering two courses for £7.95, which changes every day.

When we were there, it was leek and potato soup or Sicilian vegetable and polenta terrine with chunky tomato sauce for starters. We decided to try them both. The soup was peppery hot and not too thick or creamy.. The terrine was unusual, an interesting change from the typical starter options, and quite delicious I was informed.

For the mains I chose roast chicken leg served with mash and red wine sauce, and my friend had linguini pasta with mushrooms and courgettes in a white wine cream sauce.

The chicken was good, the sauce was positively delicious, like nothing I have tasted before, the vegetables slightly al dente. The portion size just right for lunch and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The pasta sauce was also rather special, creamy but not too heavy, and complementing the mushrooms beautifully. The portion was very generous and my friend couldn't resist devouring the lot.

We both resisted the dessert menu and settled for coffee, which was excellent. Although we didn't sample much drink, Jack's is clearly a place for wine lovers, just take a peek at the wine cellar downstairs.

I would certainly recommend exploring this little bistro, we came away feeling thoroughly uplifted.

How did it fare? (put of six stars): Food 4 Drink 4 Service 5 Atmosphere 6 Value 5